Madame Z's Corner: Aventurine

Madame Z provides monthly posts featuring a different healing stone each month. She gathers her info from many different sources including the books: The Way of the Green Witch; Healing Crystals and Gemstones; and Grimoire for a Green Witch; the websites: That Crystal Site; Wings of Spirit; and Healing Crystals for You; as well as relying on personal experience. Healing stones are not a substitute for medical treatment. Anyone with serious medical or emotional issues should consult with a health care professional. When purchasing a healing stone, it is best to buy the stone you are drawn to. Healing stones should be cleansed and charged periodically. We cleanse our personal stones at least once a month, and sometimes more often if we feel they need it. Cleansing can be accomplished by holding the stone in a stream of water. A natural stream is best, but since most of us do not have access to one, filtered water is a good substitute. Stones that include metals should not be placed in water because of the risk of rust. These stones can be placed in dirt or smudged with white sage. To recharge the stones, place in a sunny window or in moonlight for a few hours.

Our stone of the month for January 2014 is Aventurine.
The ancient Greeks believed aventurine helped to preserve courage and optimism, and would sew it into the clothing of men going to war. Aventurine is available in many colors, however, the most common used for healing is green. Green stones in general are believed to have an effect on the heart chakra. Considered an all-purpose healer, aventurine is associated with luck, prosperity, health, creativity, and courage. It is believed to help release stress, anxiety, and fear, bringing tranquility, peace, patience, and serenity. Aventurine is considered to be one of the best stones to use during stressful periods. It is thought to balance emotions, create optimism, and to increase vitality and love of life.  An ideal stone for those looking for a positive view of life, it is believed to help heal emotional pain and broken hearts. This wonderful stone is also thought to release toxins, to reinforce leadership capabilities, and to help with decision making. Some of the physical ailments it is believed to relieve include pain, bronchitis, fibromyalgia, and sprains. Aventurine is also thought to have a beneficial effect on skin irritations such as acne, or those associated with allergies. Our personal experience with this stone is of a gentle healer. One that promotes patience, understanding, and brings a peaceful feeling to the wearer.
Aventurine can be cleansed with filtered water and recharged in sunlight.